Success stories

Success stories

  • Inside the Tennessee Theater

    Tennessee Theatre

    The Tennessee Theater opened on October 1st, 1928 as the Motion Picture palace. They had live entertainment from day one, but the 1920s movies were popular. It did well during World War 2. People...

  • Two professionals in their distillery

    Drop Zone Distilling

    In Knoxville, Tennessee, where the age-old traditions of distilling spirits have permeated through generations, lies a distillery that not only evokes the nostalgia of authentic moonshine but also...

  • J. Retinger, founder and CEO, BioPet Laboratories

    BioPet Labs

    BioPet Laboratories, often just called BioPet, was recognized as one of the fastest-growing businesses by UT alumni, earning a spot at number 21 out of 40. A lot of this success is thanks to the...

  • Three professionals enjoy the patio with a picturesque landscape background

    Ancient Lore

    Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Tennessee landscape, there exists a haven where stories of fantasy become a tangible reality—welcome to the Ancient Lore Village. An innovative venture brought...

  • Image of Tracy Solomon accepting an award

    Veteran Owned Small Business Serving America's Warfighter

    In 2004, Tracy Solomon found TEVET, LLC, which provides supplier precision modular instrumentation, subsystems, and complete test stations for the defense and aerospace industry. In 2004, Solomon...

  • Chef Christopher's Catering crew in the bakery

    Rural Business Offers Event Venue for All Occasions

    In 2002, Christopher and Brenda Newton started Chef Christopher’s Catering. The business grew to 20 employees and became the top catering company in Sumner County, Tennessee. Chef Christopher’s...

  • Image of Larry Schmittou

    From One to 14 Bowling Centers with SBA Financing

    In 2000, Larry Schmittou started L&S Family Entertainment, LLC ( L&S). In 2009, Mr. Schmittou wanted to expand beyond one bowling center. In 2017, Mr. Schmittou again wanted to expand this business...